Interesting Japanese songs recommended for men in their 60s

Goten GrandmaFujimoto Fusako

Fujimoto Fusako, Gotemba Lady

This is a commercial jingle created by the local Shizuoka station, TV Shizuoka, for a campaign, and it was aired only within Shizuoka Prefecture.

The lyrics are sprinkled with the names of cities and towns in Shizuoka, making it educational as well.

The singer is Fusako Fujimoto, well-known for anime and commercial songs such as the theme song of Patalliro.

Electric Wire OndoItō Shirō

Densen Ondo / Shirō Itō

This is a song sung by Shiro Ito (credited as Benjamin Ito in the show) on a variety program that became a hit.

It’s a song that rides entirely on momentum.

On the same program, Masao Komatsu also turned out several hits, such as Shirake-dori Ondo.

Don’t underestimate me.Matayoshi & Namenna yo

Matayoshi & Namenna yo “Don’t Underestimate Me”

In the early 80s, for some reason, Name-neko (the “bad-boy cat” craze) briefly became a fad.

Merchandise modeled after driver’s licenses featuring Name-neko photos was popular at the time.

This song is the image song that came out riding that momentum.

But trends moved quickly back then, and after a brief gust of hype, it faded away just as fast.

Hone Hone RockShimon Masato

Honehone Rock / Masato Shimon

From the long-running children’s show Hirake! Ponkikki, which established an unshakable place for itself over many years, a variety of hit songs were born.

Speaking of Masato Shimon, it goes without saying that Oyoge! Taiyaki-kun was a massive hit.

However, I’d like to spotlight Hone Hone Rock here—a song that, due to its lyrics, seems basically unairable nowadays.

Shirake Bird OndoKomatsu Masao

Shirake Bird Ondo – Masao Komatsu

That nostalgic song born from the TV show “Migoro! Tabegoro! Waraigoro!” Released by Masao Komatsu in 1977, this unique ondō-style tune comically shifts through the directions—south, west, north, east—while he sings.

Its lyrics satirize the then-popular notion of the “apathetic generation,” blending social irony with plenty of humor.

Known as one of Komatsu’s signature songs, it was also included on the album “Komatsu no Ooyabun.” Originating from a sketch on the show, it was promoted as a tie-in with “Migoro! Tabegoro! Waraigoro!” It’s perfect for livening up parties or karaoke.

Perhaps it’s a song that gives you the composure to laugh off life’s bitter moments.

Kamonegi OndoHirano Remi

Kamonegi Ondo (Leek-and-Duck Dance) — Remi Hirano, 1972

A delightful comic song that humorously portrays the back-and-forth between a hostess and her patrons, set in a glamorous Ginza club.

Remi Hirano’s distinctive vocals pair perfectly with the lively ondo rhythm, lifting listeners’ spirits.

Released in November 1972 as Hirano’s fourth single, the song was later covered by multiple artists, including Leo Nakagawa and Yoko Nagisa.

Framed by the neon-lit nights of Ginza, it uses animal metaphors to depict the exchanges between men and women, offering a symbolic snapshot of the era.

It’s a track brimming with laughter and nostalgia that can liven up parties and gatherings across generations.

Ghost RockGō Hiromi, Kigeki Kirin

Hiromi Go & Kiki Kirin – Ghost Rock (1977)

There was a time when Hiromi Go released comic songs together with Kiki Kirin, his co-star from the drama “The Mu Ichizoku.” This song, “Obake no Rock,” is fun musically, but the choreography is also pretty amusing, so it’s fantastic to imitate the moves and sing along.